Tag: leaky-gut

  • Unsuspecting Families Are Feeding Their Children Contaminated Finger Foods

    My pediatrician told me that my when my infant was about 9 months old (maybe a bit older) he was ready for solid foods like original Cheerios. So I followed the doctor’s advice, I kept a ready supply of this handy finger food in my diaper bag. My children ate boxes and boxes of Cheerios. In fact, I served it almost daily. Like you, I thought I was feeding my family a nutritious source of ‘whole grain part of a balanced diet’. Unwittingly, I was filling their body with high levels of toxic glyphosate and the 10,000 food additive chemicals, all of which are allowed to be added (directly or indirectly) to their food.  

    75% of US foods are contaminated with Roundup with glyphosate. 

    Now, my children are suffering from ADD, anxiety, depression, chronic constipation and a myriad of other ailments that are linked to imbalance known as a “leaky gut”. People who have leaky gut are more likely to have a number of other health problems including “gastrointestinal issues such as inflammatory bowel disease, chronic diarrhea, colitis and Crohn’s disease, obesity, cardiovascular disease, depression, cancer, cachexia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and ALS, among others.”

    Our gut is the key to our health and wellness. its responsible for 75% of our immune response. <Learn More about Leaky Gut>

    Glyphosate responsible for gut imbalance? 

    Glyphosate is the key ingredient of the herbicide Roundup, more than one billion pounds sprayed in the US alone. It’s applied to our food as little as three days before harvest. It is absorbed into the plant and can’t be washed away. It is catastrophic to the beneficial gut bacteria that is responsible for our immune system response.

    Monsanto has steadfastly claimed that Roundup is harmless to animals and humans because the mechanism of action it uses (which allows it to kill weeds), called the shikimate pathway, is absent in all animals. However, the shikimate pathway IS present in bacteria, and that’s the key to understanding how it causes such widespread systemic harm in both humans and animals.

    The bacteria in your body outnumber your cells by 10 to one. For every cell in your body, you have 10 microbes of various kinds, and all of them have the shikimate pathway, so they will all respond to the presence of glyphosate!

    Glyphosate causes extreme disruption of the microbe’s function and lifecycle. What’s worse, glyphosate preferentially affects beneficial bacteria, allowing pathogens to overgrow and take over, including the highly toxic Clostridium botulinum. 

    In the interview above, Dr. Seneff reviews a variety of chronic diseases, explaining how glyphosate contributes to each condition. So to learn more, I urge you to listen to it in its entirety. It’s quite eye-opening. According to Dr. Seneff, glyphosate is possibly “the most important factor in the development of multiple chronic diseases and conditions that have become prevalent in Westernized societies.”

    It’s disconcerting to say the least. I did what my doctor said, and fed my children Cheerios and other foods recommended by the government via the food pyramid. Now my children are part of the statistic of that is 54% of children suffering from chronic illness and disease. 

    Not giving up the possibility of healing my kids

    My mission, to see if I can undo the damage, support their body’s healing processes and help them to make better food choices. Its never to late to start making a change and to heal from the damage done. This is what we are doing to help detox the glyphosate, build our guts and provide nutrient-dense foods to support healing.

  • Food & Mood

    Food and Mood: How food impacts your brain health

    We are all aware of how our moods influence our food choices.  Many of us have used food as an alternative to feeling our feelings.  It is often easier to feel full than it is to feel angry, sad, lonely, depressed or anxious.  We celebrate with food, we commiserate with food, we soothe ourselves with food.  Our mood often impacts the decision to eat and what we choose to eat!

    But did you know that what you eat also influences how you feel.  The food we eat can actually impact our mood.  What we eat can contribute to feelings of stress, anxiety, sadness and even depression.  Our food choices even influence how our brain ages and can contribute to the development of dementia or Alzheimer’s in our later years.

    How food impacts brain health

    The food we eat provides the basic building blocks for all of our physiological needs.   Our brain weighs about 2% of our body mass but uses 20% of our caloric needs.  We know that what we eat impacts our health, but a lot of people forget that our brain is attached to our body and what we eat impacts its health as well!

    If you were to build a house out of rotten lumber what do you think would happen??  The food we eat essentially provides the building blocks we use to build and renovate a healthy body and brain.  Healthy food, healthy brain.

     

    Food provides the building blocks for a healthy brain

    Neurotransmitter synthesis requires adequate amino acids (which are derived from protein) and vitamin and mineral co factors.  Deficiencies in either protein or B12, folate, B6 and zinc can cause symptoms of depression and dementia such as low mood, fatigue, cognitive decline and irritability.

    Omega 3 fatty acids also benefit our moods and reduce the risk of dementia.  Recently a large meta- analysis which included 26 studies and over 150,000 individuals confirmed that high fish consumption (which is one of the best sources of omega 3 fatty acids) is significantly associated with a reduced risk of depression.  Other research has also shown that some diet rich in omega 3 fatty acids (especially EPA) has a beneficial effect on the symptoms of depression.

    The brain on fire

    One of the reasons that omega 3 fatty acids are beneficial is that they are anti-inflammatory.  More and more research is linking neuro inflammation to depression, anxiety, dementia, Alzheimer’s and ADHD.  Omega 3 fatty acids help put out the fire!

    One of the challenges with the standard North American Diet is that we don’t consume enough omega 3 fatty acids and we over consume omega 6 fatty acids – which are pro inflammatory.  Current ratios of omega 6 to omega 3 fatty acids are 16:1.   Traditional diets ranged from 4:1 to 1:4.  A far cry from current consumption ratios.

    Antioxidants also play a role

    A diet rich in antioxidants can have a positive impact on mood and brain health in general.  Antioxidants are substances that protect our cells against the effects of free radicals.  Free radicals are by products  of normal physiological processes.  They are also created  after exposure to a variety environmental toxins such as cigarette smoke, pollution etc.  Free radicals cause oxidative stress and contribute to the development of many diseases ranging from cancer, heart disease , depression, anxiety, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis to name just a few.

    Vitamins A,C and E, carotenoids, flavonoids, tannins, lignans and phenols are antioxidants derived from food that protect our cells from free radical damage.

    Plant based foods are the best sources – fruits, vegetables, nuts,

    seeds, herbs, spices, whole grains.  And even chocolate!  Current dietary recommendations are 7 to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables.  In 2014, only 39.5% of Canadians aged 12 and older reported eating 5 or more servings daily.


    Lets talk about sugar

    Sugar also impacts our mood.  There are actually no government guidelines in North America regarding the daily intake of sugar.  The World Health Organization recommends we decrease our consumption of added sugar to no more than 5% of our daily calories or a maximum of 6 teaspoons of sugar daily.  If you read labels it is helpful to know that 4 grams of sugar is equal to 1 teaspoon.

    The average Canadian eats 18 teaspoons of sugar daily.  That is an astounding 88 pounds a year.  Teenagers eat more – boys a whopping 138 pounds of sugar a year.

     

    Sugar is like a drug

    When we eat sugar there is a release of feel good hormones.  Sugar hijacks the brains reward pathway.  Over activity of this reward system leads to more cravings and an increased tolerance to sugar.  So begins a vicious cycle of cravings.

    Sugar and carb laden foods mess with our brains neurotransmitters.  Sugar also causes our blood sugar crash and can cause symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, brain fog and fatigue.  Chronically high blood sugar has also been linked to inflammation in the brain.

    The standard N.A. diet that is high in processed food (sugar, fat, salt) increases the risk of  depression compared to those who eat a whole foods diet that is lower in sugar and processed food.

     

    How to boost your mood with food

    • Start with real food. Real food is the kind of food that has been around for hundreds of years.   Avoid processed and refined food, preservatives, artificial flavours and sweeteners.
    • Get a minimum of 7 -10 servings of fruits and vegetables.
    • Eat fish several times a week. Wild salmon, herring, sardines are the highest in omega 3 fatty acids.  Supplement with a good source of fish oil if this is preferable.
    • Add more healthy fats to your diet. Great sources are nuts, seeds, avocados, flax seeds, extra virgin olive oil.
    • Eat less sugar and refined carbohydrates. Aim for less than 6 teaspoons daily.
    • Incorporate more herbs and spices into your cooking.
    • Enjoy good quality dark chocolate in moderation!!
    • But don’t forget to also move your body daily, practise gratitude, and have more fun…….

     

    This article originally appeared at: http://www.saskwellness.com/food-and-mood-how-food-impacts-your-brain-health/.

  • The Gut-Thyroid Connection: Hashimoto’s

    The Gut-Thyroid Connection: Hashimoto’s

    Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune hypothyroid disorder responsible for 80% of all hypothyroid cases in the US.

    What is the Gut –Thyroid Connection?

    Hashimoto’s disease is an organ specific autoimmune disease – meaning it affects the thyroid. But at its core, it is rooted in inflammation that may begin outside of the thyroid in a substantial number of cases . One of the most common sources of inflammation that eventually leads to autoimmune conditions is intestinal hyperpermeability, or “leaky gut.”

    The main job of the intestinal mucosa (the lining of the intestine) is to act as like customs officer at a border crossing. It allows nutrients from our food to pass into the submucosa where it can be assimilated for our benefit, while keeping potentially harmful proteins from our food and fragments of both healthy and harmful bacteria out of the submucosa where they can trigger inflammatory and immune reactions. Over time, persistent exposure of the submucosa to inflammatory and immune triggers causes the body to produce antibodies, special proteins that recognize and fight viruses and bacteria. These antibodies can also start to recognize and attack your body tissue, including your thyroid tissue, and sabotage your thyroid’s ability to produce or use thyroid hormones, resulting in Hashimoto’s disease.

    Further, the health of the intestinal microbiome regulates overall inflammation in your body by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines including tumor-necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-KB), while promoting anti-inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-10 (IL-10).

    New research also suggests that there is direct cross-talk between proteins and hormones in the gut and the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis (HPT), adding yet another layer of the connection to what goes on in the gut and the health of the thyroid.

    Antibiotic use, frequent use of NSAIDS (ibuprofen, Aleve, Motrin, etc.), a diet high in sugar and low in a wide variety of vegetables, over-exercise and chronic stress, all affect the health of the intestinal mucosa and the microbiome, and can determine whether you develop hypothyroidism.

    Celiac disease, as in Karen’s case, creates an extreme set-up for leaky gut. In fact, as many as 10% of patients with celiac disease have hypothyroidism. But much milder forms of leaky gut and dysbiosis – which affect millions more people that has previously been recognized – can also create the environment for Hashimoto’s to develop.

    The tricky thing is that not not everyone with gut problems has classic digestive symptoms. Sometimes the only symptom of gut problems is an autoimmune disease! So if you have Hashimoto’s disease, it is worth including gut healing as part of your plan.

    Learn More about the The Core Solution: Healing the Gut-Thyroid Connection

      

    This article originally appeared at: https://avivaromm.com/gut-thyroid-connection/.
  • New Year Bone Broth

    New Year Bone Broth

    Dr. Rosie Main:
    Now is the time I encourage my patients to make all things new and restore their bodies by recommitting to their health and renewing their minds by fasting and prayer. To do this I have them do a 5-7 day bone broth fast. I started doing bone broth for healing my own issues with Crohn’s years ago. I realized that my autoimmune issues with glucose sensitivity were due to my inflammation in my gut. I had a leaky gut that resulted in many other health issues. Years ago I began removing all inflammatory foods such as grain, sugar and toxins and began to heal my gut through bone broth.

    Bone broths have been used medicinally throughout the centuries to cure digestive disorders, cold and flu viruses, skin conditions, and a host of other infectious diseases. It was often referred to as the “Jewish Penicillin”, and can heal the body in a very short amount of time. In my personal experience- I have noticed clear skin and increased energy that I was truly not expecting! Currently I am doing for fasting purposes to help as I fast and pray yet be able to function physically with my work week. I am loving the benefits of it both spiritually and emotionally. Many people do it to help with autoimmune conditions caused by the leaking of undigested food that goes and stimulates the immune system to create antibodies that attack itself. We see many people with thyroid issues, arthritis, diabetes, lupus and many more new millennium diseases due to a leaky gut. A bone broth helps restore health as well as mental health since the gut is also considered the second brain. Serotonin is primarily produced in the gut and if inflammation exists in the gut, many issues like anxiety, insomnia and depression are found. Lastly doing a bone broth fast is soothing during this time of year and easy to prepare (see recipe below).

    Superfood Benefits and Reasons to Eat
    1. Strengthened Immune System: “Science validates what our grandmothers knew. Rich homemade chicken broths help cure colds. Stock contains minerals in a form the body can absorb easily—not just calcium but also magnesium, phosphorus, silicon, Sulphur and trace minerals. It contains the broken down material from cartilage and tendons–stuff like chondroitin sulphates and glucosamine, now sold as expensive supplements for arthritis and joint pain.” Taken from Sally Fallon “Why Broth is Beautiful”.
    Try it out, next time you are feeling a little down, drink some bone broth and notice the incredible difference how you feel! Or if you don’t even want to get to that point, start consuming it now and nourish that beautiful body!

    2. Glowing Skin and Strong Hair: Want the number one beauty secret that ancient women have discovered long ago? It promotes hair growth, fights aging, wrinkles, and even stretch marks? No, you do not have to pay hundreds to support a gorgeous body- just consuming nutrient dense foods will do the trick- bone broth being a major player!

    The collagen and gelatin in bone broth supports hair growth and rejuvenates the cells of the skin. Our bodies need certain building blocks to manufacture collagen. Gelatin is basically powdered collagen, providing our bodies with what it needs to make healthy skin and hair cells- naturally! You will see the results you are looking for.

    3. Strengthens Digestive System: Science has now confirmed the beneficial effects of gelatin taken with food. It aids in the digestion and has been used to treat numerous intestinal disorders. The gelatin in bone broth protects and heals the mucosal lining of the digestive tract and also helps aid in the digestion of nutrients.
    Bone Broth Recipe:
    Ingredients
    Calories: 379 per serving | Number of Serving: 3 Quarts
    2-4 pounds grass fed beef marrow and knuckle bones
    2 tblsp raw apple cider vinegar
    4 quarts filtered water
    3 garlic cloves, halved
    3 tumeric pieces, halved
    1 onion, quartered
    Pepper, sea salt, and any other desired spices

    Method

    Place bones in a pot or a crockpot (high temperature), add apple cider vinegar and water, and let the mixture sit for 2-4 hours so the vinegar can leach the mineral out of the bones.
    Add more water if needed to cover the bones.
    Reduce to a low simmer, cover, and cook for 24-72 hours (if you’re not comfortable leaving the pot to simmer overnight, turn off the heat and let it sit overnight, then turn it back on and let simmer all day the next day)
    Let the broth cool and strain it, making sure all marrow is knocked out of the marrow bones and into the broth.
    Add sea salt to taste and drink the broth as is or store in fridge up to 5 to 7 days or freezer up to 6 months for use in soups or stews.

    Please let me know if you need help following this plan or and health concerns!
    Go love……Go serve!
    Dr. Rosie Main, DC
    Main Health Solutions
    Host Maximized Living Radio 94.1

    Article references:

    http://bodyecology.com/articles/bone-broth#.UXmirYJVqGg

    New Year! New You!